How Do CCRCs Work?

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We sincerely believe that for many people, moving to a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) is the best move they have ever made. The reason? They tell us! But such an important life decision requires all the facts.

1. The Financial Facts - More Affordable Than You Might Think

Although it is natural to focus on the change in residence when moving to a continuing care retirement community, Asbury’s communities are more similar to an insurance policy, rather than a real estate purchase. You will have a support network in place no matter what happens down the road. This is accomplished through three primary funding sources.

Entrance Fee

Even though your residence in a continuing care retirement community is maintenance-free, the community does require maintenance. Entrance fees help provide capital funds for upkeep, enhancements, and the wide range of services, programs, and staff that a well-run community requires. The Asbury system includes seven CCRCs in four states and recently marked its 90th year in aging services. With Fitch-rated bonds and strong reserves, Asbury’s financial strength is an important benefit we bring to residents.

The one-time entrance fee varies widely according to your residence and which entrance fee plan* you choose, declining refundable plan, partial- or fully refundable plan. For a one-bedroom apartment and the declining refundable plan, entrance fees begin just under $100,000 at some Asbury communities. See our entrance fee plans here and learn more about the community in Frequently Asked Questions. (*Carefully read the continuing care agreement for the conditions that must be satisfied before Asbury Solomons is required to pay the Entrance Fee Refund.)

Monthly Service Fee

Many people are surprised to find this fee is the same or slightly less than their monthly household budget, especially when factoring in routine home maintenance and unexpected repairs. People typically compare the monthly fee at a continuing care retirement community to a mortgage. But your mortgage pays only for the roof over your head. Your residence is just the beginning of what is covered by your monthly service fee.

The service fee also includes continuing education programs, clubs, on-campus cultural events and regular trips to off-campus events and destinations, a fitness center and classes with certified staff, banking, and dining options for when you don’t want to cook.

Benevolent Care

As a not-for-profit with a faith-based heritage, Asbury is a mission-driven organization that seeks to do all the good we can for those we serve. This pledge includes consideration for benevolent care for residents who outlive their resources through no fault of their own. In 2015, Asbury provided more than $3.5 million in anonymous financial support to residents across our system.

2. A Plan for the Future - Health Services & Wellness Support

A CCRC is designed for aging well, providing options and support that allow you to make the decisions that are best for you as you age. Because of this, a CCRC gives you more control over how your life will unfold. Many residents also consider the move a gift to their children, who will not face moving them in a crisis or managing their parents' estate.

Unexpected events are a fact of life. If you become ill, injured or require a hospital stay, you receive priority health care access and rehabilitative services in a place you know with providers you trust. Your residence will be waiting for you when you return.

Support in a crisis

During a hospitalization, your community’s care navigation team springs into action, meeting with your care team and putting in place transportation, a follow-up plan, home care services or equipment for a smooth return to the community and a successful recovery.

Temporary health support

Asbury Solomons resident Peggy Hovermale benefitted from this while recovering from a hip replacement. She spent several days in the health care center post-surgery and then returned to her apartment while receiving therapy. Being able to remain with her large network of friends at Asbury Solomons and in the surrounding community made the entire process much less stressful, Peggy emphasizes.

Supporting chronic conditions

Moving to a different level of care can be temporary, as in Peggy’s case, or permanent as needs change. LeRoy Erickson and his wife moved to an apartment at Bethany Village in Mechanicsburg, Pa., several years before she was diagnosed with dementia. Leroy credits the support services – both for him and for his spouse – with keeping Maryanne and him together in their residence longer than if they had not moved. Further, LeRoy continued to integrate his wife into his daily life much more easily after her eventual move to memory support because she was on the same campus, he believes. (Watch LeRoy's thoughts on the Video: Supporting Memory Loss.)

3. Timing Your Move - 3 Important Factors

When considering the timing of your move, thinking with your head instead of your heart is important.

Your health: Waiting until you need the health services of a CCRC means losing their wellness benefits, and may put residential living options out of reach. Another consideration is the challenge of selling a house and moving in the best of health – even with the moving coordination a CCRC provides.

The economy: Assets fluctuate, something we were reminded of in 2008. The value of your home and investments change with the markets. Keep an eye on the local markets, engage with a realtor, and if home prices are creeping up, think strategically.

The right fit: An established CCRC is not built-to-order. Unless an expansion is in the works, inventory is limited. If you desire an apartment or cottage or garden home with a specific feature or view and it becomes available, even though it may be sooner than you had planned, be flexible.

Spotlight

Featured Resident

Asbury Solomons combines the beauty and relaxation of resort-style living with all the benefits of a Continuing Care Retirement Community. Located in Solomons, Maryland on the banks of the Patuxent River, Asbury Solomons provides a lifestyle of wellness for today’s active seniors complete with secure plan for future healthcare needs. Choose from a variety of independent living options, all with the assurance of assisted living and skilled care on site, if ever needed. In partnership with Asbury, a national leader in retirement living, Asbury Solomons provides a unique environment for exceptional living.